Catholic families across the Democratic Republic of Congo are gathering around televisions to follow the papal conclave with high hopes that their compatriot, 65-year-old Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, might become the first African pope of the modern era.
In Kinshasa, Patience Mudinda and her family watched the beginning of the papal election process with anticipation. “I will be overwhelmed with joy if Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo is elected,” Mudinda said, as her son concentrated on the television news coverage.
Cardinal Ambongo, the Archbishop of Kinshasa, is among the contenders to succeed Pope Francis. His potential election would mark a historic moment for the Catholic Church and particularly for African Catholics, who represent a rapidly growing share of the global Catholic population.
Those close to Cardinal Ambongo in Kinshasa have been more measured in their comments about the Vatican election. Abbot Marcel Ndjondjo, a close colleague of the Cardinal, expressed hope that “the religious spirit will prevail over all other considerations in the choice of the future Pope.”
The prospect of an African pope has generated excitement throughout Congo, where the Catholic Church holds significant influence. The nation has one of Africa’s largest Catholic populations, with approximately 40% of Congolese identifying as Catholic.
Cardinal Ambongo, known for his advocacy on social justice issues, has emerged as a prominent voice within the Church’s hierarchy. His candidacy represents the possibility of shifting the Church’s leadership center toward the Global South, where Catholicism is experiencing its fastest growth.